Pregnancy rhinitis isn’t linked to an infection or allergy and lasts for at least six weeks.
This common condition is also called non-allergic rhinitis.
Nasal symptoms because of pregnancy typically resolve within two weeks after you have your baby.
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It also looks at the prescription medications that are available to treat severe congestion during pregnancy.
Rhinitis of Pregnancy
It is common to have congestion during pregnancy.
Studies report varying rates of pregnancy rhinitis ranging from 22% to 32% of all pregnant women.
It also may be in part due to the overall hyper-vascular and hyper-metabolic state associated with pregnancy.
Symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis have also been reported with the use of birth control pills.
Keeping congestion under control can prevent these infections.
Nasal irrigation with a neti pot is the first-line treatment.
Nasal (Inhaled) Corticosteroids
Inhaled nasal corticosteroids are often used to control asthma during pregnancy.
They may be used in some cases to control pregnancy-induced nasal symptoms.
Nasal Decongestants
Most nasal decongestants are not considered safe during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Do not use a nasal decongestant anytime during your pregnancy unless you have specifically checked with your obstetrician.
Nasal decongestants such asAfrin(oxymetazoline) are very effective at temporarily relieving congestion.
Using nasal decongestants for more than three days in a row can lead torebound congestion.
To relieve pain and headaches triggered by the infection, using Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be effective.
However, these medications are not always safe for everyone.
A healthcare provider can help find the treatment that works best for you.
Summary
Pregnancy congestion is common.
It typically begins in the second or third trimester and resolves within the first two weeks after delivery.
Congestion during pregnancy can be uncomfortable and make it hard to sleep.
Saline nose sprays can also help.
Therefore, pregnancy rhinitis should always be reported to your healthcare provider so that symptoms can be properly managed.
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